The Best Sailing Weather Apps of 2025
Predicting the weather when sailing isn’t always possible, but it certainly helps to have the right tools. If you’ve ever been to the Virgin Islands during hurricane season (or even peak sailing season), you’ll know that the winds can shift and the skies can open up in the blink of an eye.
Sailing weather apps are an important tool that can help you prepare for varying conditions before it’s too late. Whether you’re taking your first sailing courses or have loads of nautical miles under your belt, these are the apps you want on your mobile device for sailing safely.
Navionics
While many old-school sailors like to carry a physical copy of a location’s map, Navionics is a helpful tool for modern sailors who want a digital sailing chart. One of the most popular sailing apps on the market, it’s also a reliable source for weather.
In addition to giving you detailed routes on a digital map, it also helps you keep track of weather patterns in real time. You’ll receive information about sailing weather, like temperature and wind, and you can get an ETA to your destination with up-to-date information on changing tides.
Pros: User interface and frequently upgraded charts/weather updates.
Cons: A subscription is necessary to take advantage of advanced features.
Savvy Navvy
Sailing weather safety starts with having the right tools. Savvy Navvy is one of the most popular sailing weather apps and is available in a free or premium version. We like the latter, as it helps map out locations along our sailing courses in the Virgin Islands, which you won’t be able to access on the free version. In addition to charting weather-specific charts for safe sailing, the app has an anchor alarm feature, which is designed to notify sailors when they veer off path from their anchor.
Pros: Advanced features like auto navigation, GPS, and anchor alarm.
Cons: The free version doesn’t support locations in the Caribbean and other international destinations.
Windy
Windy is a popular sailing app that predicts rain, sunshine, wind, and more. It also helps you sail safely by providing information about changing tides and underwater currents. Windy is compatible with both iPhones and Androids and can be paired with tablets and smart watches, too.
Pros: Both the premium and free versions are known for being very accurate.
Cons: Some users have difficulty navigating the app.
PredictWind
Available for both Android and Apple devices, PredictWind is a favorite amongst the most dedicated sailors, including participants of America’s Cup. It works in over 20,000 locations worldwide and was developed by research scientists and sailors from the Alinghi team. The app provides information about routes, wind, waves, and even traffic on the water.
Pros: Detailed information and optional personalized route planning.
Cons: Some users report issues with apps working without strong WiFi.
Sail Safely With the Best Weather Apps
Whether you take sailing courses with Go Sail VI or charter a bareboat, weather apps can help you choose the safest routes and plan ahead for the most enjoyable experience. We are always trying to learn more about the best sailing weather apps, so email us at [email protected] and let us know which you like the best!